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Ombudsman Testifies on Favoritism in Federal Contracting Involving $5.7M McKinsey Deal

Apr 30, 2024, 03:30 PM

The Procurement Ombudsman of Canada testified before a parliamentary committee regarding allegations of favoritism in federal contracting processes, specifically involving McKinsey & Company. The consulting firm, which has received numerous federal contracts, is under scrutiny due to its former executive's close relationship with Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. During the testimony, it was revealed that government officials had bent rules to favor McKinsey, and in one instance, Minister Freeland personally approved a $5.7 million contract despite opposition from her own officials. The Ombudsman emphasized the need for significant rethinking of federal procurement practices to prevent misuse and favoritism costing taxpayers a fortune.